Complete America’s Great Trails Act

Tax credit for trail land donations

If enacted, this bill would create a National Scenic Trail conservation tax credit equal to the fair market value of land you donate that includes a National Scenic Trail and its trail corridor. The trail corridor would generally be at least 50 feet and at most 2,640 feet on each side, with special rules for smaller holdings and nearby residences. Fair market value would be set under existing section 170 valuation rules, using highest and best use where practicable. You would have to elect the credit; that election would be irrevocable and you could not also claim a tax deduction for the same donation. Any portion of the property used in a trade or held for income would be treated as a general business credit; the rest would be a personal credit. Unused credit could be carried forward and used for up to 10 taxable years, and the rule would apply to contributions made after the date of enactment.